Announcement comes after Tony Fernandes and Ruben Gnanalingam stood down as co-chairmen

Amit Bhatia has been appointed chairman of Sky Bet Championship club Queens Park Rangers after previous incumbents Tony Fernandes and Ruben Gnanalingam stood down from their roles as co-chairmen.

Bhatia was previously vice-chairman, but will work closely with QPR chief executive officer Lee Hoos in running the west London club.

Gnanalingam will remain on the board as vice-chairman, while he also remains chairman of the QPR Trust.

Bhatia told the club website: “I’m excited to be stepping into the role as chairman of QPR, and have accepted this position fully aware of the responsibilities and pressures that come with this appointment.

“As well as being involved with the management of the club over the past decade, I have always been a loyal fan and a passionate supporter.

“In returning to the club as chairman this season, I hope to draw on the experiences of the past 10 years to help Steve McClaren, Lee, Les Ferdinand and the entire QPR family further the progress we have made under Tony and Ruben’s leadership.

“Under my watch, I will ensure that we make decisions that are in the best long-term interests of QPR, and which bring stability and sustainability to the club.

“While we would like to be more active in the transfer market it’s important we adhere to the profitability and sustainability rules moving forward.

“We are pursuing a more careful and considered strategy and our squad is now made up of young and hungry players, filled with passion and commitment.

“I am hopeful that we can make more signings before the end of the loan window and that Steve’s final squad on August 31 will make us proud – and make our weekends more enjoyable!”

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